Avoid Bad Sitting Habits That Put Your Spine at Risk

What could be simpler than sitting, right? Well, the truth is, you could be doing it wrong… And you aren’t alone. With so much time spent in chairs these days, especially at computers, poor sitting habits are having catastrophic effects on all of us.
Your spine is happiest in a neutral position, meaning that all three of its natural curves are aligned and/or supported. Prolonged time in a chair, and particularly in one that doesn’t promote these natural curves, can lead to misalignments, stress, back pain, poor posture, interrupted blood supply, and more. Even routine exercise won’t undo the damage.

Here are a few practical tips to get smart about how you sit, increasing spinal health and comfort:

1. Sit less! Almost too simple, right? See if your workplace can provide you with a standing station to use for at least a portion of your workday.
2. Try a yoga or Pilates ball instead of an office chair. It may take a little getting used to, but the benefits are fantastic. Micro-movements promote fluid exchange in your joints, and your core/trunk muscles will be routinely activated in the natural act of balancing.
3. Still using a regular office chair? Invest in a lumbar roll to fill the space between your lower back and chair, promoting those healthy spinal curvatures while also minimizing hunching.
4. Move your screen up so that it’s level with your eyes. Looking down throughout the day increases strain from holding your head up and makes it too easy to slouch (putting pressure on your cervical discs).
​5. Keep your feet flat on the floor and position your keyboard at a height that allows your arms to be close to a 90-degree angle.